2016 marks GFAA’s third year in the It’s Your Neighbourhood Scheme. We achieved a Thriving assessment at our first go and now we have an Outstanding ranking to defend in 2016 after our success last year. Outstanding is the highest award possible. Taking part in IYN has been a source of good advice on growing, the environment and building a better community, but just as importantly, it has helped us open doors to getting more external funding for our site and facilities.

This last month Norman and I took part in a workshop to help us prepare for this year’s assessment. It’s an important year as 2016 marks the 50th Anniversary of Britain in Bloom. The workshop was hosted jointly by IYN, The Royal Horticultural Society and Aberdeen City Council.

Juliette Camburn hosting and appearing for IYN

Stephen Shaw for Aberdeen City Council

Liz Stewart for RHS

Karen Allan for Aberdeen City Council

Some of the key messages for our preparation included:

keeping in touch and seeking advice

using online resources from IYN and RHS

using print and digital comms to get our message across

have a vision of where we want to go

marking the 50th Anniversary in some way

building partnerships with others

seeking Council officer and elected member involvement

celebrate our successes and good news stories locally and nationally

get all ages involved

use the council media office to help with the press

think about sustainability and long term vitality

don’t stand still and get stuck in ruts.

So, we have lots to get on with then! I and any of the committee members will welcome all suggestions and discussions about our key developments and plans for the future – and of course help to prepare our site for the upcoming IYN Assessment visit.